BBC: easing rules will ‘safeguard Radio 4’
THE BBC has said it will deliver more public service programming by scrapping requirements that have become a “box-ticking exercise”.
BBC managers believe scrapping the rules will allow it to safeguard its “jewel in the crown”, Radio 4, amid shifting audience habits.
The Daily Telegraph revealed yesterday that Ofcom plans to abandon scores of public service requirements on BBC stations, including rules that demand history, science and comedy shows on Radio 4. The proposals have angered commercial rivals and listener groups, who fear less popular programming could be cut back
James Purnell, the director of BBC radio and education, said last night that the new regime will allow the corporation to increase its public service role, however. He added that the current system of requirements was a barrier to creativity in the schedules.
Mr Purnell said: “Far from wanting to ease our public service role, we want to increase it. We just want to do it in a creative way, rather than as a box-ticking exercise.” Ofcom is drawing up new licences for radio stations after taking over responsibility for regulating the BBC from the BBC Trust. It was shut down as part of a new BBC Charter approved by the Government last year.
While the trust closely measured the BBC’S radio programming against more than 200 requirements, Ofcom plans to focus on broader public service goals.
Mr Purnell said: “This is how the BBC’S new regulatory system has been designed. It requires the BBC to put forward creative plans every year.
“We did this in July. For Radio 4, we set out that it will continue to be a station unique for the breadth and quality of its content, with authoritative news and current affairs at its heart as well as an unparalleled range and depth of programmes including science, religion, culture, history, ideas, drama and comedy, through regular strands, documentaries and special commissions.
“Judge us through the quality and distinctiveness of the programmes and services we produce – rather than inputs and regulatory frameworks. That way we’ll safeguard the jewel in the crown.”